Fire Department News

The Winston-Salem Fire Department urges all citizens to have a happy and safe Independence Day by following a few simple safety tips.

Grilling

When using a gas grill that has been not been used in a while, check the valve and gas hose for leaks by brushing them with a solution of soap and water. Do not use the grill if the solution bubbles after it is applied. That indicates a leak.

Never set up a grill under or near a flammable structure, such as a porch overhang, a deck rail or the side of a house. Keep flammable liquids and materials away from the grill.

Use only approved lighter fluid for charcoal and follow the directions. Never squirt lighter fluid on hot coals.

Scrape accumulated grease and ash off grill grates and burners.

Never leave food unattended on the grill.

Make sure the grill is turned off when you are finished. If using charcoal, make sure the coals are completely out before disposing of the ashes.

Fireworks

Fireworks that are legal in North Carolina include poppers, sparklers, fountains and novelty items that don't explode, spin, leave the ground or fly through the air. Examples include snake and glow worms, smoke devices, wire sparklers and noisemakers like string poppers. Firecrackers are prohibited, as are any fireworks that shoot into the sky or spin rapidly.

Last year fireworks caused six deaths and an estimated 8,700 injuries in the United States, according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission. Follow these safety tips:

Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.

Never light fireworks indoors, near a structure, dry grass, or flammable materials.

Closely supervise children around fireworks at all times. Little arms are too short to hold sparklers, which can heat up to 1,200 degrees or more.

Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.

Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.

Never attempt to alter or modify consumer fireworks and use them only in the manner in which they were intended.